25-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Zenrich imports 192,000kgs of wagyu, cements Malaysia's status as hub for premium Japanese beef
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has cemented its place as a regional hub for premium Japanese beef with Zenrich Wagyu's record-breaking import of 192,000 kilogrammes of Japanese Wagyu in 2024.
The remarkable volume - equivalent to 600 cattle or 12.86 million silky slices of marbled perfection - has earned the company an Asean Records recognition for the "Largest Annual Volume of Japanese Wagyu Imported in One Year".
The milestone, celebrated at the grand opening of Zenrich Wagyu's flagship restaurant Wagyu by La Moon, signals Malaysia's growing appetite for premium halal-certified beef.
Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup remarked: "The record is an example of the hard work of Malaysian companies like Zenrich Wagyu, our trade partners and our commitment to bringing the best of the world to Malaysia while strengthening our place in the global food scene."
Zenrich Wagyu's commitment to halal-certified A5 Miyazaki Wagyu reflects a broader mission to make premium beef accessible to a wider audience, the company said.
"We believe the market has been booming ever since the Covid-19 pandemic. Before, it was deemed exclusive, but now everyone can try it," said Zenrich Wagyu director Liven Chong.
Meanwhile, Wagyu by La Moon offers a seamless blend of Japanese culinary artistry and local hospitality.
"For our Wagyu buffet, we are the cheapest in the market, and we want to let as many people try our products as possible," Chong added.
Wagyu by La Moon's launch comes at a pivotal moment as Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
"As the country gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, establishments like Wagyu by La Moon underscore the vital role of food in defining Malaysia's narrative," Kurup.
"Beyond the allure of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and bustling cities, it is places like this that showcase the heart of Malaysia - where the world's finest flavours are brought to life with a unique halal twist, paired with the unmistakable warmth of Malaysian hospitality," he added.
Zenrich Wagyu is preparing to expand its footprint in Malaysia.
"Soon, we are opening our second branch in Lalaport and planning to open a third one to cater to more special and expensive tastes," Chong revealed.
"We are targeting more than 800 cows for 2025. Our Wagyu is halal-certified by Jakim in Japan, and we are trusted because our cows are traceable."
Under the expert guidance of Chef Saburou Niitsu, a veteran with 35 years of experience, Wagyu by La Moon's menu bridges Japanese culinary tradition with halal practices.
Signature dishes like yakiniku, shabu-shabu and sukiyaki deliver authentic Japanese flavours while appealing to Malaysia's multicultural palate.
